German Advertising Tin Yo-yo – Erdal and Tante Kwak

Collectibles : Toys : Yo-yos : Tin Advertising

 

This colorful advertising yo-yo dates back to the first part of the 20th century – probably the twenties or thirties. The front advertises Erdal shoe polish. Erdal polish was manufactured by the Werner and Mertz Company, which still exists today. The company began in the late 1800s; the Erdal name was created in 1901 and shortly after that the red ‘frog prince’ became the company’s trademark and mascot.

The frog has gone through many transformations over the years. The current frog has been streamlined – it looks more like a logo than a picture. We kind of like this old version – it has the look of a frog ready and willing to be kissed!

This is a larger yo-yo than we often see with these advertising types. It measures 3” in diameter, and is about 1/2" thick. The one side features the Erdal frog on a black ground. The words say: Erdal Rotfrosch zur Schuh u. Lederpflege unereicht (Erdal Red frog for shoe and leather care is unsurpassed). The other side advertises Kwak Bohnerwachs (Bean Wax – we’re not sure what type of bean this would be). A beaming “Tante Kwak” (auntie Kwak) testifies to the quality of this product.

Condition is good for its age. There is the usual edge wear. There are a few areas of paint loss and some scratching on the Erdal side. There is a 1/8” paint chip on the Kwak side. This is a nice example of German advertising history – and of an endearing and enduring symbol: the Erdal Frog Prince.

Item ID: 0246